BATH — Firefighters from nine communities rushed to the home of Bath Fire Capt. David Hudson on Thursday evening, after Hudson’s family reported a fire in the home just as they finished Thanksgiving dinner.

The blaze heavily damaged the residence. Bath Fire Chief Lawrence “Buddy” Renaud said he’s not sure whether Hudson’s insurance company will declare the home a total loss.

Renaud called the Bangor Daily News from Hudson’s 9 Hounds Way home, where 43 firefighters and sheriff’s deputies arrived at 8 a.m. Friday to start boarding up what remains of the structure.

Hudson is a 29-year veteran of the Bath Fire Department and a reserve deputy with the Sagadahoc County Sheriff’s Department. He also heads paramedic services at Mid Coast Hospital in Brunswick.

The garage and upstairs of the 1½-story Cape-style home was spewing flames when Renaud arrived at about 4 p.m. Thursday, he said.

“The crews had a good stop to save the rest of the house,” Renaud said, though he said the remainder of the 9-year-old structure sustained heavy heat and smoke damage.

Because the house is out of the hydrant district, firefighters struggled to gather enough water to battle the blaze, relying on seven tankers.

“To be honest, it took awhile to get the necessary gallons for water flow,” Renaud said.

No injuries were reported, and firefighters saved the family’s pets.

Renaud said Hudson was not home when the fire started, but his family and friends had just finished Thanksgiving dinner.

“They were in the kitchen area when one of their friends discovered the fire in the garage,” Renaud said.

The fire apparently started in the garage. A state fire marshal’s office investigator said the cause likely will remain undetermined because of the extent of the damage, according to Renaud.

Hudson is doing about as well as could be expected, Renaud said.

“He’s in a little bit of shock, but he’s grateful for everybody’s help,” Renaud said. “He’s moving forward.”